When dealing with limited space in your fridge, it's important to prioritize the storage of perishable groceries properly to maintain their freshness and safety. Here are some tips to make the best use of your limited fridge space:
Organize and declutter: Regularly clean out your fridge to remove expired items or those you no longer need. This will free up space and make it easier to organize the remaining groceries.
Use storage containers: Invest in some airtight storage containers or reusable silicone bags to store chopped fruits, vegetables, or leftovers. These containers help save space and keep your food fresh for longer.
Group similar items together: Store similar items together, such as dairy products, fruits, vegetables, etc. This will help you easily locate items and make efficient use of the available space.
Use the crisper drawers: Fridge drawers are designed to maintain optimal humidity for fruits and vegetables. Use these drawers to keep produce fresh and separate from other items.
Consider using bins or baskets: Use stackable bins or baskets to organize smaller items like condiments, sauces, and small fruits. This helps create additional shelving and prevents items from getting lost in the back of the fridge.
Prioritize by shelf life: Arrange the groceries based on their shelf life. Put items that are likely to spoil sooner in easily visible spots at the front, so you use them before they go bad.
Check temperature settings: Ensure your fridge is set to the appropriate temperature (usually between 35°F to 40°F or 1.7°C to 4.4°C) to keep your groceries fresh for as long as possible.
FIFO method: "First In, First Out" means you use the older groceries before the newer ones. This prevents items from expiring unused at the back of the fridge.
Avoid overstocking: While it's tempting to buy groceries in bulk, be mindful of your limited space. Overstocking can lead to items getting crushed or hidden, causing food waste.
Store some items outside the fridge: Not all fresh groceries need refrigeration. Items like bananas, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and whole fruits can be stored at room temperature.
Use the freezer wisely: If you have limited fridge space but some freezer space available, consider freezing certain items like meats, bread, or pre-cooked meals to extend their shelf life.
Remember, keeping a well-organized fridge with these storage tips will not only maximize your limited space but also help reduce food waste and save you money in the long run.